Arsenal star keen to improve as Real Madrid star tipped to replace him

The Gunners have been heavily linked with a move for Real Madrid ace Karim Benzema this summer [respected journalist Emanuele Giulianelli via Daily Star], and if signed, the France international would likely take his compatriot’s place in the side.

As such, Giroud may need to pick up his game if he wants to keep getting first team action.

“I showed great mental strength last year and I had good stats,” the forward began, as reported by talkSPORT.

“I always try to improve myself and I feel with the team, so yes, I am sure I can bring something more to the team and to my team-mates.”

There have been doubts over the 28-year-old’s ability to make an impact against the best sides [Daily Telegraph], but he did manage 14 goals in 27 Premier League games last season. This is a similar total to Benzema’s 15 in 29 La Liga matches for Los Merengues during the campaign.

However, it could be said that the former is the focal point of the North Londoners’ attack, while his international teammate is largely in the team to help Cristiano Ronaldo in the Spanish capital. This is shown by his 10 assists to Giroud’s mere three last time round, rather putting into context their relative contributions.

If Arsene Wenger is unable to sign the Bernabeu man, then he could turn his attention to Borussia Dortmund striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang according to respected Spanish journalist Kike Marin of El Confidencial [via Metro]. The Gabon international netted 16 times and assisted another six in 33 Bundesliga games last season, and has the added bonus of being able to also play on the wing. This versatility may well appeal to Wenger.